Northwest Computer Museum

A true treasure to visit. They have actually working computers from the 70s to the present day. You can for example play on a real commodore 64 and they have all of the old games to try out. There is so much learning to be had here for anyone interested in computing and it's early mass market history. Really friendly staff. 100% recommend a visit if in the Manchester area.

Simon Phillips

4 months ago

We visited the Computer Museum today and we had a great time! It was our third visit here and it's always a lot of fun! There's a lot to see and lots of old computers and games consoles that you're able to use/play. They have a large selection of retro games that you can play on the consoles. The museum has expanded since last time and has added AI and Virtual Reality. I highly recommend visiting for anyone who has who has interest in computers or gaming, it's a fun trip down memory lane. The member of staff we spoke to was very friendly and welcoming and is happy to chat about everything that's on display in the museum. There is also a cafe which has a large selection of food and drink choices at very reasonable prices. We will definitely be returning in the future!

Jenna

4 months ago

Awesome and friendly. Shall take 2 ofmy Enterprise 128s to show and fix one of them. All CRT based, including the arcades.

sma

4 months ago

A great day out for a group of elderly 40-somethings seeing their childhood encapsulated in a museum! Loads of hands on opportunities with some old and not so old equipment. Systems to try, games to Play, interesting history to read on the walls. Nice little cafe for a fish finger buttie break too. A selection of 80s arcade cabinets and a VR room provided the entertainment after going through the history of computers. Well worth a visit if you’ve been tinkering with computers all your life!

Mike Carter

6 months ago

There are plenty of PCs, consoles, and arcade machines on display in a small room, as well as a large library of games to play and books/magazines to read. It's a very impressive place that takes 3+ hours to try everything. The staff are also really friendly, and they have a cafe with affordable food.

Tim Stoddard

6 months ago

An excellent collection of computers from the early days to current. Surprisingly all the machines are powered up and available for use, you can even select games from the very large collection to play. Very interesting, with enthusiastic and helpful staff.

adam dobson

6 months ago

What a great interactive museum. I couldn't believe how many "home computers", that's a term you don't hear much these days, they had. All in working order and usable. The people running the place were all very friendly and helpful. I even got to load a floppy disk I last used in 1988, and it worked. Look forward to my next visit.

G Godfrey

6 months ago

Wow! What an amazing museum. If you're into your computer history, then this is the place to go. There must be over 40 different computers from all decades on display here and even better, they're mostly all switched on for visitors to explore. It's great that in some cases, the original manuals are right beside them for you to flick through and have a go at coding. Kids will love the retro arcade machines and more modern gaming consoles. In fact, there is an entire cupboard full of retro games and you can ask the staff to install them on the relevant machine. Surrounding the large space are info boards charting the history of computing and the pioneers of the computer industry. We had the most fun playing with the virtual reality sets of which there were a few to try out. There is also a separate room with original BBC micro computers for you to have a go coding on too. Finally there is a well stocked cafe serving hot and cold food plus a variety of beverages and a small shop selling merchandise. We spent over 5 hours having fun in this place and could easily have spent more time there. I'd say this is one of the best hands on computer history museums in the UK and I would thoroughly recommend a visit. We will definitely be back for a return visit if we're in the area.

Martin Goodman

7 months ago

What a fantastic afternoon ! Relive your childhood and even play on systems that you were never lucky enough to own back in the day. Took my 15 year old lad and he absolutely loved it. Very knowledgeable staff and a relaxed friendly atmosphere .A vast amount of systems on show from 70’s to 2000’s. I will definitely come again and try some food next time as well.

Gavin

7 months ago

Fantastic collection of computers and consoles from the ‘70s onwards. Vast majority can be used/played and plenty and educational history posted around the collection. Best thing is that your kids can play the consoles and retro arcade machines while you reminisce about your computer history!! - it’s in a strange place tucked away at the upper floors or an re-purposed old mill, but well worth the visit. There are also drinks and snacks available if you’re staying long enough to make the most out of your stay. Highly recommend.

Andrew Armstrong

7 months ago

Had the best time ever here today. I met Joe the owner, he showed me and my family loads of amazing things. Loads of hidden gems all over the place. The staff and volunteers do so much to help everyone have a good time. Best place I’ve visited in years

Darren Curtis

10 months ago

This museum is a little gem. A myriad of systems, devices, peripherals up and running for you to try out. We could have spent all day... weekend, shop and cafe to keep you refreshed too. Very knowledgeable people that are very friendly. We will definitely be returning. Thank you.

Matt Holt

10 months ago

I wasn't sure what to expect from this museum, but as soon as I walked in a smile spread across my face and is still there now. The owner is brilliant and very passionate about the museum. There are computers and consoles from the 70s through to VR of today, all free to play with. Cost in is £7 for adults. The cafe is decent too, we will definitely be going back.

David Shaw

10 months ago

I visited the Northwest Computer Museum today, as part of a large home education group. Despite there being almost 40 children and their parents/guardians, which could have been chaos, everything was so well-run and the day was fantastic. As a late-30s mum that was a massive computer geek in childhood, walking into this museum was an experience filled with nostalgia. I found my old games consoles, the first computer we ever had at home, and examples similar to the computers I used at school - plus, so much memorable software on display! Meanwhile, whilst I looked around and the memories flooded back, my daughter enjoyed being able to actually touch things, play games, test keyboards, press buttons, and not have to listen to people telling her not to go near things. Such a welcome experience - she was able to really see and feel what the computers and consoles were like, instead of just staring at them and reading about them! The owner gave a fantastic and fun tour, filled with interesting facts, so adults and children alike came away with new knowledge, and the children had a chance to enjoy a short coding lesson on the old computers, which was at the perfect level for them. It was clear that everyone at the museum was passionate about what they were doing, and about sharing valuable knowledge with visitors. It's so good to see a museum where the staff aren't just staff, but people that actually light up when they talk about the collection. Also worth noting are the food prices. We ate before our visit as I wasn't sure we were getting a designated eating time, but this was built into our visit and I noticed that the café prices were very reasonable. Often we try to avoid eating out at museums and attractions, because as a home educating family visiting several places a week the costs really mount up and so many places are over-priced, but this clearly isn't one of those places. I ended up choosing to buy snacks, and will definitely buy meals next time we visit. Looking forward to returning!

Cheryl Lewis

1 year ago

Absolute gem in the Northwest! Based in a mill, from the very start we were warmly welcomed and ushered through the journey of the development of computers. Joe and Helen are amazing, bringing the history of computers to life to the next generation. Immersive and interactive experience. With a cafe facility, we felt right at home. Kids loved it and so did we. Highly recommend a visit.

Seema Azam

1 year ago

An amazing treasure trove of all things computing from yesteryear! Features machines from the 1980s, arcade consoles from the 1990s and to present day, plus a lovely little cafe, education centre and virtual reality room. A brilliant day out for parents and children, for a school class, or for the older folks amongst us who remember their Atari, Commodore and Spectrum computers fondly. ?

Richard Tubb

1 year ago

A brilliant hands on retro computer museum. Loads to check out and play on. And a great experience for seeing some unusual and rare machines. Plus a couple of 80s arcade machines, programming room and VR system. Very welcoming and friendly people on hand to talk you through any of the exhibits. Would definitely visit again when I'm in the area.

Paul J

1 year ago

Lots of old computers to play with, very friendly staff and freshly prepared food in the cafe area. The deluxe ham and cheese toasties were superb! Signage is poor, so use your satnav and beware the museum is on the fourth floor. The huge building is multi-occupancy so it's not obvious from outside that you've arrived at the right place.

Simon Williams

1 year ago

Really cool place and great for the price. You can play loads of games on loads of different consoles. There are many playable consoles including, commodor 64, ZX spectrum, atari, SNES & NES, megadrive and many more. You can play on the vr to it's really great! Definitely worth the price, I'd recommend it to old and new game fans.

Fraz

1 year ago

Fantastic computer museum offering hands on experience with many systems down the ages. The staff are incredibly friendly and very knowledgeable. They also have a nice little cafe, a great library of books and magazines and a shop with electronics.

Jonathan Harden

1 year ago

Awesome historical collection of computer and gaming hardware. All hands on and definitely has a wow factor when you walk in. Very helpful staff and facilities (cafe, toilets and parking). Worth a visit

Aaron Phillips

1 year ago

This was a brilliant experience, so much to do and so much fun. Took me right to the 80s playing computer games from my childhood. Also, enjoyed playing all the other games in this gem of a place. There's even a little arcade with a number of arcade games eg Space Invaders. There's loads of old working computers to try out from back in the day. There's even a little cafe for refreshments and you can spend all day there. It is very educational and I would recommend for all. The staff are brilliant too.

Andrea Blue

1 year ago

This is a great spot to spend a few hours, especially with younger folk who have never seen such a variety of computers. It's interactive, educational, fun and nostalgic, great setup and has a cafe. Really enjoyed

shaun morgan

1 year ago

As someone who isn't particularly interested in computers, I was really surprised how much I enjoyed my visit! Huge range of resources with thoughtful ways to engage people, including lots of bygone machines to play around with, retro video games, 3D printing, a library, electronics kits and components available to purchase, and a café area for snacks. I'm pretty sure there's something to interest everyone. (Also bonus points for having the cutest website I've ever seen)

Em F

1 year ago

The North West Computer Museum is a remarkable haven for computer enthusiasts and retro gamers alike. Compared to other computer history museums I've explored around the world (USA, Japan, more), its hands-on interactive experience truly sets it apart. The museum boasts an impressive collection of computers and retro games that will transport you back to the golden era of gaming. The opportunity to play on a wide range of playable computers and indulge in classic BASIC programming is a rare treat. Additionally, the museum's curated collection of books provides ample resources to delve deeper into computer history and gaming culture. If you're seeking a memorable journey through the evolution of computing and an immersive trip down memory lane with retro games, look no further than the North West Computer Museum. It's a must-visit destination for anyone with an appreciation for the fascinating world of computers and gaming.

Shaun Webb

1 year ago

Love visiting here! You can get to play with your childhood computers again, and there's an arcade too. Even if you kids aren't into retro computing, they'll soon take to the free arcade machines or Mincraft.

Jason Ratcliffe

1 year ago

Fascinating place! I had an old computer that I had been trying to find a home for and they very kindly took it. When we called in to drop it off it was fascinating to see all the different computers that they had on show, including loads of computers and consoles that you could use.

Caroline Stead

1 year ago

Spectacular! It was enthralling to see the computers I owned in my childhood, and not only that but to use them too! There are a rich collection of computers here, from the past to the technologies of today. The volunteers are helpful and informative. There is lots of information around the computers on display, and they are due to add more features. It was interesting to see a room being used to teach programming, and in a very easy to follow way. You could literally spend the whole day there. I had a wonderful time reminiscing.

Graham Phillips

1 year ago

Visited today and what an amazing museum of computing this is. The collection of computers and consoles is fantastic and sure did bring back the memories of when I first began getting into computers in the mid 80's. From seeing my first computer (the Sinclair ZX Spectrum +) and also the Amiga 500, Amiga 1200, and then also the early-mid 90s PCs (ahh and the good old Voodoo Graphics 3d-fx cards). This place definitely made me smile and reminisce. They also have a large selection of original games that can be played on the computers/consoles too. Even a room which contained BBCs for bringing back the memories of school too. Highly recommended. The staff who run this place are also extremely friendly and welcoming. Keep up the amazing work. I look forward to visiting again in the future when the arcade area opens too.

Robert Baker

1 year ago

Visited on Saturday. Lots of room on the carpark. A great selection of retro computers and games consoles that brought back memories of getting my first computer in the 80s. A varied selection of computers and games to try out, plus some more recent consoles and virtual reality to try too. Had a nice coffee and chat with Joe (Museum Director) who is very knowledgeable about the history of computers, and was telling us about the hard opening and future plans. Sadly they haven't been able to get the arcade games installed yet due to issues with the lift, but still lots to keep you occupied. One thing to note, this is an old mill so be aware it is a little chilly, make sure you have a jacket on. Had a lovely time and would recommend.

Chris Walker

1 year ago

We visited today in half term and ended up spending a good 4 hours here. What a fantastically unique find this is! We love how very SEND-friendly the atmosphere is and how accommodating it is for young people on the autistic spectrum. Super friendly, kind staff. Our boys loved having a go on the retro consoles that we grew up with decades ago. Will definitely return. Thank you.

Shirley Murray

1 year ago

Wonderful place. Tucked out of the way, and quite a trek up the stairs, but worth it. Wasn't left disappointed. Dozens of old computers lined across lots of tables, with the oldest dating from 1975! A few old video game consoles too, like the PS2, and some others that I don't remember the name of. There's also a free section which has Minecraft on 4 PCs. Definitely returning.

J H (Northerner Transport Hub)

1 year ago

Good to visit just think the £7 entry fee was a bit steep.

Michael Binks

1 year ago

Good collection of computers, if you grew up anytime from the 1970s then you'll remember a lot of the items they have on display. The best thing is you can get hands on with them! Really interesting to watch kids playing games that we played, although they didn't have to type them in from a listing! They have a huge range of software and will let you load pretty much anything to have a go. I'll be back to play Loderunner!

Dave Parker

1 year ago

If you're interested in retro tech this is a must-see. I don't know of anywhere else with the sheer numbers of vintage PCs, all working for you to play around with. Hours of fun for enthusiasts and lots to see and do for anyone wanting to learn more about the history of home computing.

Steven Tomlinson

1 year ago

Fantastic retro computer museum. Excellent choice to view old retro computers and associated hardware. Based in an old mill on the fourth floor. No disabled access if lift is out of order. Small cafe onside. Small arcade to arrive shortly. Recommended for all ages.

Luke Matthews

1 year ago

It was like stepping back in time! Wow we have come a long way in the computing world in my lifetime. Took the grandkids along - probably a bit too young at 6 - they moved on to the next game effort the current one had finished loading! No patience these days.....Well worth a trip down memory lane. Be warned its on the 4th floor, a long way up if the lift isn't working!

Gary Bamford

1 year ago

I visited the soft launch on Saturday 28 Jan, around 10:30am. A nice selection of retro computers although there were quite a few that were just out on display and not turned on. I imagine that this will improve over time. The car park was very busy. It probably takes 2 to 3 hours to see everything, maybe longer if you take more time to play on the computers. Be sure to wear a jacket as it is cold in the mill.

Stephen

1 year ago